Crown Perth inquiry: Former WA Supreme Court judge Neville Owen in running to lead casino probe

A former WA Supreme Court judge who oversaw the Bell Group saga has emerged as a contender to lead an inquiry into the suitability of Crown Perth to operate the State’s only casino. Neville Owen, who retired in 2010 after 19 years on the Supreme Court bench, is one of two former judges being considered to lead the four-month probe, which would have the powers of a royal commission. The other former judge in the running is Lindy Jenkins, who was first approached by the State Solicitor’s Office almost a week ago. Neither Justice Jenkins or Justice Owen would comment. Justice Owen, 73, is best known for ordering a syndicate of 20 banks to pay $1.58 billion to the liquidator of Alan Bond’s failed Bell Group after a marathon hearing spread over 404 sitting days. He also steered the 18-month royal commission into the collapse of the HIH insurance group. His 2003 report is credited with forcing the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority to lift its performance. He later chaired the Catholic Church’s Truth, Justice and Healing Council which co-ordinated the church’s engagement with the royal commission into child sexual abuse. The Gaming and Wagering Commission of WA last week recommended the independent inquiry be established under the direction of Racing, Gaming and Liquor Minister Paul Papalia. It was ordered after a NSW inquiry headed by Patricia Bergin found money laundering was facilitated at the company’s Perth and Melbourne casinos. Premier Mark McGowan yesterday said the terms of reference and the names of the inquirers, who would also include a retired public servant, would be released later this week. Asked if Justice Owen was in contention, Mr Papalia said: “The terms of reference and structure of the inquiry are still being developed by the State Solicitor. “An announcement will be made after the State Solicitor has provided his final advice including the appointment of the inquirers.” The Victorian Government announced former Federal Court judge Raymond Finkelstein would lead a six-month royal commission into Crown Melbourne at a cost to taxpayers of up to $7 million. Last week, NSW Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority chairman Philip Crawford said Crown would not receive a license to run its Sydney casino unless Perth-based director John Poynton resigned.